Children enjoy a day just for them

Promise Edwards, 9, left, and Sonique Morrow, 9, enjoy the activities on offer to mark Children's Day yesterday. Photo / Stephen Parker

Getting to play with the gymnastics equipment and get her hands "all mucky" in the clay topped the list of Children's Day highlights for Sonique Morrow.

The 9-year-old and her friend Promise Edwards were two of the hundreds of people who made the most of the stunning weather and headed along to the Redwoods yesterday to sample the range of free activities on offer to mark Children's Day.

Sonique said it was great to be able to do some creative activities like painting paper bags and a quilt, as well as playing on the gymnastics equipment taken along by MIGS gym, where she is a member.

"I thought it was quite good because heaps of people were there and there was heaps of support."

She said a highlight for her friend Promise was being able to make some artworks which she could take home with her. Sonique's mum, Necia Morrow, said she took the girls along because she was a committee member at the gym and was volunteering at the event. Mrs Morrow said it was also a good chance to expose what MIGS offered and attract more members.

"We had a parachute and the little climbing bars and mats. It was definitely popular and hopefully we sparked some interest."

She said one of the best parts of the day was that it was all free.

"I think it is great for underprivileged families and for their kids especially to be able to come out and enjoy what Rotorua has on offer."